J.W. Rogers Evandale Pattern Silverplate Serving Tray, 18-Inch
Hollowware (Serving Tray / Platter) · J.W. Rogers (a brand of International Silver Co.). J.W. Rogers was one of the many marks used by the International Silver Company of Meriden, Connecticut, to segment their commercial and retail silverplate lines.
Pattern: Evandale pattern (Catalog No. 1190). Introduced in the mid-20th century as a traditional/conservative dining line.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray / Platter)
Maker
J.W. Rogers (a brand of International Silver Co.). J.W. Rogers was one of the many marks used by the International Silver Company of Meriden, Connecticut, to segment their commercial and retail silverplate lines.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). The item is a base of nickel silver (a non-ferrous alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc) coated in a thin layer of pure silver via electroplating.
Dimensions
Length: 18 inches (handle to handle). Estimated weight: 1.5 to 2.5 kilograms. This is a standard large-format meat or cocktail serving tray size.
Description
An 18-inch rectangular serving tray from the Evandale collection by J.W. Rogers. This piece represents the sturdy, functional elegance of mid-century American dining. It features a wide, reflective surface bordered by a classic gadroon edge that flows into ornate, cast handles. Its substantial size makes it an ideal centerpiece for formal service or a sophisticated bar setup.
Key Features
Deep-struck identification marks on the underside; gadroon-style border; high-lustre finish; 18-inch spanning length including handles.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). The item is a base of nickel silver (a non-ferrous alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc) coated in a thin layer of pure silver via electroplating.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the flat surface with a Gadroon (rope) style border on the handles and rim. The style is Neoclassical/Georgian revival, characterized by clean lines and minimal ornamentation except for the shell and scroll flourishes on the handles.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'EVANDALE' (pattern name), 'J.W. ROGERS' with a star symbol (maker's mark), and '1190 18 IN' (model number and measurement in inches). The lack of a 'Sterling' or '925' mark confirms it is silverplate.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped and die-struck. The flat body was likely pressed from a sheet of nickel silver, with the cast handles soldered onto the rim before the electroplating process was applied.
Functional Features
Raised rim to contain liquids/spills; dual integrated handles for carrying; large flat surface area for serving drinks, appetizers, or a main roast.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast silverplated base metal handles featuring a scroll-like aesthetic with a central shell motif. Handles are fixed (soldered) to the raised edge of the tray.
Craftsmanship Details
Typical of high-volume industrial production. The solder joints at the handles are well-hidden, and the stamping of the pattern name is crisp, though it lacks the fine hand-chasing found on premium sterling pieces.
Authentication Indicators
The J.W. Rogers star mark is a well-documented trade name of the International Silver Co. The absence of assay marks or 'Sterling' stamps correctly aligns with the material and manufacturing style of the brand.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States; manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, by the International Silver Company under the Rogers brand umbrella.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960). This period saw a massive production of silverplated hollowware for middle-class American households following the Georgian Revival aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950. The specific 'Evandale' branding and the font style of the stamping are typical of post-WWII American mass-produced silverplate.
Cultural Significance
Trays like these were staples of the mid-century American 'Sunday Dinner' and cocktail hour culture, symbolizing hospitality and a refined domestic lifestyle during the post-war economic boom.
Condition Notes
Good condition with signs of moderate use. There are visible surface scratches ('spider webbing') consistent with cleaning and use. Tarnish is visible as 'rainbow' coloration in the center and darkening on the handles (sulfide buildup). No visible 'bleeding' (where the base metal shows through the silver), suggesting the plating is still intact.
Value Estimate
Market value: $30 - $75 USD. As a silverplated item rather than sterling silver, its value is determined by its utility and decorative appeal rather than its melt value. Pristine condition or matching sets with tea services can push the price higher.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) using a soft sponge. Avoid abrasive pads which will strip the thin silver plating. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag or chest used for hollowware to minimize polishing frequency.
Similar Pieces
Oneida Silverplate Trays (similar quality), Gorham Sterling Trays (significantly more expensive/heavy), Reed & Barton 'Winthrop' Pattern (similar aesthetic but different border style).
Interesting Facts
The name 'Rogers' is one of the most famous and confusing in silver history; because the original Rogers brothers were so successful, dozens of companies eventually used the Rogers name to imply quality, even though many produced affordable silverplate rather than solid silver.